07.03.2025| Text by Carlos Cunha and Rita Alves
Photos by Sofia Rocha

On February 27 and 28, Iscte - University Institute of Lisbon hosted the Authors’ Workshop for the edited collection Histories and Cultures of Creative Computing in Europe (1970-2000): Silicon Dawn. Organized by researcher Carlos Cunha within the framework of COST Action CA21141 GRADE, the event brought together specialists from various nationalities to discuss the evolution of creative computing in Europe and the progress of the book to be published by Amsterdam University Press.

Over the two-day event, participants presented chapters and debated how communities and cultures formed around creative computing, exploring practices such as cracking, chiptunes, and demos. Discussions addressed the historical conditions that enabled the development of these technological and artistic expressions, as well as the influence of institutional, cultural, and political factors on the dissemination of these practices across different regions of Europe.

The workshop highlighted the need to expand research beyond Anglo-American approaches, giving voice to lesser-studied European experiences. Many researchers emphasized the importance of a more inclusive approach that acknowledges the diversity of contexts and narratives that have contributed to Europe's digital heritage.

The edited collection aims to bridge historical gaps and consolidate the role of creative computing in the continent's digital evolution. In addition to presenting case studies and archival research, the book will also address methodological challenges in the history of creative computing, contributing to the greater recognition of this field of study.